Lois Ann Wheeler, 87, Hillsdale, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, at her home.

Lois was born April 16, 1937, to Lloyd and Mabel (Moe) Hewitt. She grew up on a farm just outside Chetek, where her family instilled in her the importance of hard work while also embracing the joy of life. Whether it was riding her pony or training a steer to pull a cart, her family made time to celebrate the simple pleasures along the way.

She graduated from Chetek High School in 1955. There, Ronald Wheeler was voted prom king and he chose Lois as his queen. On May 24, 1958, Ron and Lois were married and their family flourished, welcoming four children and later embracing a fifth as their own.

Lois graduated from beautician school, and even after stepping away from the profession, continued to style the hair of family and friends. She also worked at a greenhouse and a hatchery, but her true pride was operating their small, family-run dairy farm with Ron. In her retirement, she transformed the old dairy barn into an antique shop called The Green Barn, where she delighted in sharing treasures from auctions and garage sales.

She poured her heart into every job she held, but her greatest fulfillment came from being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love for her family was unwavering, and she took immense pride in their achievements. She could often be found cheering them on at sporting events and county fairs, and for years, her “Granny Power” hugs became a beloved tradition for the entire wrestling team.

Grandma Wheeler was a small lady with a larger-than-life personality. She had a knack for playful jokes and clever pranks. One memorable Christmas, she feigned disappointment after unwrapping an empty jewelry box, but with a twinkle in her eye, she revealed the gifted ring was already on her finger. Always up for a bit of shenanigans, she embraced life with a mischievous spirit.

Those who knew Lois understood that her door was always open. She welcomed visitors with hot coffee, an abundance of snacks, and hearty meals. Her kitchen became a gathering place, where daily coffee was shared with loved ones. In fact, a playful scolding may have been given if someone didn’t stop by often enough!

Lois was one of those people who seemed to have a never-ending wealth of knowledge. She had a natural talent for nurturing plants and knew exactly how to care for a sick calf. She was a fierce competitor in leg wrestling and an avid reader. Despite her many talents, spelling was never her strong suit.

Surviving are children Rhonda (Terry) Olson of Hillsdale, Julie Cole of Hillsdale, Mary Beth Wheeler of Scottsbluff, Neb., Blaine (Amy) Wheeler of Chetek and Steve (Kim) Ness of Barron; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren (two more on the way); a brother Greg (Kathy) Hewitt; and a brother-in-law Frank Unterschuetz.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ron, a sister Audrey Unterschuetz, an infant brother Larry Hewitt, and a son-in-law Brook Bowhay.

A celebration of life will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7 at Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron. A short service will be held at 6:45.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron.

Last Update: Oct 23, 2024 1:05 pm CDT